Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

• With new IEEE Ethernet standard, old cables learn new tricks

  The new IEEE Ethernet standard offers some much-needed flexibility for network managers trying to keep up with skyrocketing bandwidth demand while working under long refresh cycles that prevent frequent rip-and-replace upgrades. With 802.3bz, or ... Continue Reading

• NBASE-T switches help organizations 'futureproof' networks

  Early adopters are turning to the new IEEE Ethernet standard, 802.3bz, to help ensure their wireless networks can meet the bandwidth demands of tomorrow. Continue Reading

• With NBASE-T Ethernet switches, repurpose the cabling you already have

  As the demand for bandwidth continues to mushroom, new NBASE-T Ethernet switches help network managers get higher data speeds out of their existing cables. Continue Reading

• The good, bad and the ugly of software-defined networking security

  Software-defined networking security has both good and bad potential. It can benefit route connectivity, but it also presents risk linked to improper SDN controller implementation. Continue Reading

• How to leverage UDP port scanning as a security scanning tool

  UDP port scanning isn't as robust as TCP port scanning, but there are steps you can take to include the technique as a security scanning tool. Continue Reading

• Network trends include new hardware role in a virtual era

  Network trends that enterprise IT pros must consider include rethinking the role of hardware in today's virtualized, software-defined services architecture.Continue Reading

• Will edge routers be replaced as SD-WAN growth continues?

  SD-WAN growth is affecting the edge router market, according to Gartner forecasts. Network expert Andrew Froehlich discusses whether or not SD-WAN will replace edge routers.Continue Reading

• Network management platforms address big enterprises, ISPs

  The leading network availability monitoring tools troubleshoot networks deployed in big enterprises, as well as within service-provider environments that manage multiple domains.Continue Reading

• Net neutrality explained: The idea is simple, but appearances deceive

  Net neutrality explained: The concept is back in play. And although its goals seem simple, reality is more complicated.Continue Reading

• Software networking supports wide range of deployment use cases

  Software networking includes elements of SDN, NFV and network virtualization, which have taken the industry by storm; it also supports advances like 5G wireless and hybrid cloud.Continue Reading

• Exploring availability monitoring tools for larger networks

  The leading enterprise network monitoring tools offer a variety of features, licensing, support and maintenance options designed for medium and larger network environments.Continue Reading

• What's the difference between NFV automation and NFV orchestration?

  NFV automation is the ability to transfer manual network configuration to technology; NFV orchestration creates the deployment and automation blueprint.Continue Reading

• New year, new WAN: SD-WAN adoption takes off

  More and more enterprises are using software-defined networking principles in the wide area network, with industry experts predicting that SD-WAN adoption will skyrocket in 2017. In fact, some top analysts expect the market to grow as much as 90% ...Continue Reading

• From consultant to enterprise network engineer: How to make the switch

  Learn how one former network design consultant made a major career change, leaving her position at a vendor and landing her dream job in the enterprise.Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2016 networking embraces SDN

  Microsoft's new Windows Server 2016 networking capabilities have grown to support SDN, virtual network functions and hybrid cloud.Continue Reading

• Open source network software promises major industry shifts

  Let the disruption commence! Observers say it's high time the networking sector accepts and sorts out open source, arguing it's not a question of if enterprises use it, but how.Continue Reading

• Viptela SD-WAN technology transforms major healthcare network

  In this software-defined WAN case study, Kindred Healthcare says Viptela SD-WAN technology has made its network more agile and less expensive to deploy and manage.Continue Reading

• Cisco IWAN architecture case study: Manufacturer embraces SD-WAN

  MTD Products credits the Cisco IWAN architecture with cutting costs and improving performance in the wide area network, ultimately leading to an increase in employee productivity.Continue Reading

• SD-WAN adoption: Exxon Mobil deploys Cybera technology

  In this case study, learn how SD-WAN adoption dramatically simplified a major oil company's wide area network while improving security and increasing flexibility.Continue Reading

• SD-WAN vendors enjoy rave reviews from happy users

  Compared to data center SDN companies, SD-WAN vendors seem to have it easy, with a relative slew of satisfied customers eager to share their deployment stories.Continue Reading

• Assessing network availability monitoring tools for SMBs, larger networks

  Learn what features, licensing, support and maintenance options the leading performance and availability monitoring tools offer to SMBs and larger networks.Continue Reading

• Why OSPF isn't your best option when using DMVPN Phase 3

  Cisco's DMVPN Phase 3 protocol offers many benefits, but make sure you evaluate options before using Open Shortest Path First.Continue Reading

• Virtual wire network transport mission could increase SDN usage

  SDN's use as virtual wire to provide network transport could get the technology out of the data center to underlay SD-WAN better than Ethernet or IP and benefit optical networks.Continue Reading

• API growth forcing vendors to take notice or risk losing out

  The API is fast becoming a must-have in modern networking. But API growth is forcing vendors to rethink how they want their devices to be configured and managed.Continue Reading

• The best path to a hybrid cloud network architecture

  There are a variety of paths that lead to a hybrid cloud network architecture. Learn whether SD-WAN, WAN cloud exchange or some other option is best for your enterprise network.Continue Reading

• SDN can help unify wired and wireless campus networks

  Campus networks can be difficult to manage, especially with the continuing need to unify Wi-Fi and Ethernet networks. But SDN's centralized approach can improve security and QoS.Continue Reading

• Chit chat: The new team collaboration apps go mainstream

  Gone are the days of dial-up internet and ubiquitous AOL accounts, when Meg Ryan had mail and no one owned a smartphone. Yet, many years and seven iPhone generations later, email -- for all its frustrations and shortcomings -- still reigns as the ...Continue Reading

• Two factors affecting the deployment pace of SDN and NFV technologies

  Service providers deploy SDN and NFV technologies at different paces for two main reasons: issues with the organization's business case and slow-going standards progress.Continue Reading

• Will NFV standards address orchestration in the near future?

  NFV standards for orchestration are affected by the number of standards groups and service providers' individual approaches, says SDN expert Lee Doyle.Continue Reading

• Advanced network monitoring aids SDN deployments

  IT professionals can reach their advanced network monitoring goals with the aid of SDN deployments.Continue Reading

• Four infrastructure technologies to watch in 2017

  Enterprises have a lot to consider when evaluating the infrastructure technologies to deploy in the next 12 months. Which ones will make the grade?Continue Reading

• SDN poised to play major role in 5G networks

  Fifth-generation, or 5G, networks promise increased wireless capacity and speed with reduced latency. SDN architecture can help improve performance and scalability.Continue Reading

• Is it hybrid WAN vs. SD-WAN, or does SD-WAN help implement hybrid WAN?

  Expert Lee Doyle tackles the issue of hybrid WAN vs. SD-WAN. Although the technologies are separate, SD-WAN can make hybrid WAN deployment and operation easier.Continue Reading

• The ups and downs, ins and outs, of cloud application delivery

  Cloud application delivery is a pressing concern in IT operations today.

  Whether enterprise applications live in a private or public cloud, enterprise IT is still responsible for making sure employees can access the apps they need -- end of ...Continue Reading

• Carriers meet need for scalable, secure cloud network services

  As hyperscale providers like AWS dominate the cloud, carriers find their role in secure cloud network services for organizations in need of cloud connections.Continue Reading

• All about the evolution of Ethernet: How we got to GbE speeds

  The evolution of Ethernet continues and is offering up new tricks. Ethernet serves as an essential networking protocol, addressing each new set of networking challenges that comes along. Whether it's next-generation gigabit Wi-Fi or modern data ...Continue Reading

• MPLS routing undergoes change, as SD-WAN gains traction

  Enterprises are seeing cost-efficiencies as they transition their wide area networks to SD-WAN. What does this mean to MPLS routing?Continue Reading

• Gigabit Ethernet speeds: What's the impact of 2.5 and 5 GbE?

  Gigabit Ethernet speeds mean enterprises can boost wireless performance without actually replacing wiring. But there are still some considerations sys admins must makeContinue Reading

• Using BLE beacons and Wi-Fi technology for device tracking

  BLE beacons and Wi-Fi technology promise enormous potential for accuracy in location and tracking of wireless devices. But is one option better than the other?Continue Reading

• From Sonnet 18 to SD-WAN technology: An unlikely networking career

  From teaching Shakespeare's Sonnet 18 to taking on a major SD-WAN technology deployment: Senior engineer Phil Gervasi shares the major career pivot that brought him to networking.Continue Reading

• White-box switches save green, but they aren't for everyone

  While some networking pros say white-box switching is the 'next big thing,' others argue that's a myth that needs busting. As usual, enterprises must consider the business case.Continue Reading

• Integrate UC platform with business-critical SaaS for competitive edge

  By one current estimate, the average business operates across six different clouds. With many software-as-a-service platforms still unable to communicate with each other, enterprise workers must straddle the space between them -- leading to ...Continue Reading

• Defining SD-WAN benefits: Does better QoE make the list?

  The list of SD-WAN benefits often includes cost savings and better routing; does it also include better quality of experience compared to a traditional WAN?Continue Reading

• How to choose an IT operations analytics tool for your enterprise

  IT environments are extremely complex today and the amount of data they generate is immense. On top of this, IT environments are also constantly changing, and it is this combination of complexity and change that can make troubleshooting difficult ...Continue Reading

• Identifying the IT operations analytics product your enterprise needs

  This guide to IT operations analytics tools explains how ITOA works so networking pros can determine the most important features and assess vendor offerings.Continue Reading

• Juniper launches hybrid cloud network services on Amazon

  Juniper Networks is offering its MX router and SRX firewall on the Amazon cloud. Hybrid cloud network services are available on the Amazon Marketplace.Continue Reading

• Four top products leading the way in multicloud management

  In this multicloud review, see the top multicloud management products. How do they approach different cloud environments, and what separates them from each other?Continue Reading

• A comparison of the leading campus LAN switch vendors

  Expert Andrew Froehlich examines the factors that will ultimately help you determine which campus LAN switch vendors and types are most suitable for your environment.Continue Reading

• Three advances making NFV deployments better for the business

  NFV deployments made progress this year, thanks to three significant developments, but will they be enough to make NFV's business case more compelling among other industry changes?Continue Reading

• Seven criteria to consider before evaluating campus LAN switches

  Before you begin researching specific vendors and campus LAN switch types, take the time to understand the requirements and capabilities you need.Continue Reading

• Cloud-based networking meets changing infrastructure needs

  A growing number of network managers have their heads in the cloud, and that's a good thing. Cloud-based networking technologies are emerging to help solve a number of enterprise problems, and organizations are busy exploring what "the networked ...Continue Reading

• What SD-WAN architecture is best for your network?

  When looking for the right SD-WAN architecture to implement, it's important to consider your specific network and the traffic it experiences.Continue Reading

• WAN access options multiply when buying network services

  A new menu of WAN access options means companies have a wide variety of means to reach cloud and network services. But more choice also means more potential pitfalls.Continue Reading

• Advanced network technology expands enterprise options

  Buying network services may have been easier in the past when there were fewer --and more expensive -- types of connections. But now, advanced network technology gives enterprises many more options. When it comes to buying bandwidth and getting the ...Continue Reading

• Do I need campus switches in my enterprise?

  The role of campus switches depends on the demands of your organization. What are the important considerations to help you make the right choice on whether or not to deploy them?Continue Reading

• Next-gen 5G wireless technology means capacity is key

  New wireless generations roll out almost every decade. What does the upcoming 5G wireless technology have to offer, and how is it different from previous generations?Continue Reading

• Successful SD-WAN use cases begin with knowing your options

  We'll keep things simple: Software-defined WAN simplifies the WAN; enterprises aiming for successful SD-WAN use cases need simplified options; and, in this video, Nemertes Research analyst John Burke simplifies SD-WAN.Continue Reading

• The evolution of campus LAN switches in the enterprise

  The campus LAN switch is a fundamental component of networking. There is a lot to know about the roles these switches play in a modern enterprise network.Continue Reading

• CN Tower climbs heights with mobile engagement platform

  The CN Tower, Canada's tallest building, implements an Aruba mobile engagement platform to connect with customers.Continue Reading

• Pervasive security is needed to protect modern networks

  Pervasive security in place of layered security is needed to secure and defend modern networks from diverse cyber threats.Continue Reading

• NFV vs. VNF: What's the difference?

  NFV versus VNF: SDN engineer Darien Hirotsu explains the differences between network functions virtualization and virtual network functions.Continue Reading

• CCIE certification debate continues despite exam's SDN, cloud updates

  Despite Cisco's recent CCIE exam update -- with a new section covering network programmability, IoT and cloud -- some pros still say the gold standard has lost its luster.Continue Reading

• Data center interconnect market: Enterprises, providers fuel growth

  The data center interconnect market is poised for significant growth, thanks to a number of factors altering the IT landscape -- including the growing use of cloud services, the massive proliferation of data, the increasing adoption of ...Continue Reading

• Three technologies to increase the benefits of SDN and NFV

  Service modeling and orchestration, SD-WAN and open source are the three technologies gaining traction to increase the value and benefits of SDN and NFV.Continue Reading

• The white box switching market gets a closer look

  Following years of development, is the potential of the white box switching market finally being realized?Continue Reading

• Is satellite connectivity a realistic option for WANs?

  What you should know about satellite connectivity, satellite internet, and the costs and benefits of universally available links.Continue Reading

• What advantages will 400 Gigabit Ethernet bring to the data center?

  What are the use cases and advantages of 400 Gigabit Ethernet in the modern data center?Continue Reading

• SD-WAN architecture: What to know before you buy

  The hybrid WAN is here and this guide explains how to buy and build an SD-WAN architecture. Learn about key features and 'nice to haves' before you approach vendors and make an acquisition decision.Continue Reading

• Picking the best software-defined wide area network product

  The traditional hardware-driven wide area network was slow and expensive. It was just a matter of time -- and technology -- before the software-defined wide area network became a reality. The arrival of the SD-WAN, vendors said, means all that ...Continue Reading

• Understanding SDN components and where they're going

  What is SDN, and how does it differ from NFV? In part two of this series, IT expert Andrew Froehlich explains SDN technologies and where we can expect to see them in the future.Continue Reading

• How to buy the best application delivery controller for your firm

  An application delivery controller (ADC) sits between you and the web server farm to manage the traffic between you and any number of back-end servers. In other words, app delivery controllers control the delivery of the web application to you -- ...Continue Reading

• Four steps to make SDN and NFV proof-of-concept trials meaningful

  The results of SDN and NFV proof-of-concept trials can advance network deployments, but they often fall short. Check out four steps that can make POC trials more meaningful.Continue Reading

• On-premises services and cloud compete at network edges

  As organizations are pushed to move services from on premises to the cloud, the focus shifts to network edges.Continue Reading

• LAN SDN management looks to the cloud and causes LAN ghost towns

  Future campus LAN SDN management will be needed to deal with LAN applications that have migrated to the cloud, creating on-premises network ghost towns.Continue Reading

• BGP routing joining OpenFlow in software-defined networks

  Border Gateway Protocol is an internet essential, and BGP routing may be taking on a bigger role in software-defined networking, displacing OpenFlow to manage SDN packet flow.Continue Reading

• Laying the foundation for a virtualized network infrastructure

  SDN, NFV and VNF: Don't get bogged down with these hot-topic terms. In part one of this series, IT expert Andrew Froehlich discusses how and whether you should implement virtualized functions in your enterprise.Continue Reading

• A comprehensive review of network performance monitors

  Network performance monitors play a crucial role in today's data centers. In this guide, expert Andrew Froehlich helps you purchase the right monitoring foundation for your organization.Continue Reading

• Building SD-WAN architecture into your world

  SD-WAN architecture opened up a whole new world of WAN possibilities. Learn all about this new networking technology, the ways to craft an SD-WAN in your enterprise, key terms and more.Continue Reading

• Exploring the ins and outs of enterprise hardware pricing

  Cloud computing has changed how businesses buy technology. How does the age of SaaS affect enterprise hardware pricing?Continue Reading

• What to know about choosing a vCPE platform

  Service providers are opting for virtual CPE and its resulting benefits, but choosing the right vCPE platform is essential to get the most out of it.Continue Reading

• Why network operations efficiency should drive technology change

  If the systems responsible for network operations efficiency and automation were driving telecom technology upgrades, the savings might just pay for SDN and NFV deployments.Continue Reading

• How segment routing could be a boon to SDN

  Segment routing could prove to be a compelling alternative to OpenFlow, but more work needs to be done before it becomes a mainstream technology.Continue Reading

• The benefits of the 802.11ad standard shouldn't be overlooked

  The other WLAN standard, 802.11ad, will bring even more flexibility and opportunities to enterprises, but the specification also comes with some challenges.Continue Reading

• Comparing cable types: Fiber vs. copper twisted pair

  What's the difference in fiber vs. copper cables? Key differences include cost, speed and more when it comes to fiber optic and copper twisted-pair cabling options.Continue Reading

• CCIE exams: Still worth it?

  Jedadiah Casey had been studying for the CCIE exams for months when he found himself asking whether the certification is even relevant in the SDN era. His answer: Absolutely.Continue Reading

• ScienceLogic EM7: Network performance monitor overview

  ScienceLogic EM7 is still a newcomer to the network performance monitoring market, but it offers flexible deployment options, including VMs and software-as-a-service installations.Continue Reading

• Viavi Observer: Network performance monitor overview

  With deployable hardware and software probes, Viavi Observer is known as one of the most robust network performance monitors in the market today.Continue Reading

• Learn what metrics matter in a hybrid cloud delivery model

  Discovering the ins and outs of a hybrid cloud delivery model can be challenging. Fortunately, metrics may be able to help.Continue Reading

• Cisco network monitor product overview

  Cisco Prime has been on the network performance monitoring market for over five years. Networking expert Andrew Froehlich takes a deeper dive into the Cisco network monitor, Prime.Continue Reading

• Riverbed SteelCentral product overview

  Riverbed SteelCentral is one of the most prominent network performance monitoring systems on the market today. Networking expert Andrew Froehlich takes a deeper dive into its features.Continue Reading

• Infosim StableNet network monitoring product overview

  The Infosim StableNet network performance monitor offers a variety of features, including support for telecommunications providers and an embedded hardware agent.Continue Reading

• HPE Network Node Manager product overview

  HPE Network Node Manager comes with a wide range of plug-ins, including monitoring for IP telephony, multicast deployments and quality assurance departments.Continue Reading

• Types of network cables: An introduction to network cabling

  Different types of networking cables are the backbone of a network's infrastructure. Selecting the right type is critical, as enterprise network admins deploy new technologies.Continue Reading

• How to buy the best application delivery controller for your firm

  Application delivery controllers have advanced in ways that make ADCs more useful for a wider range of companies than ever before. This guide outlines what you need to know in order to buy the best application delivery controller for your company.Continue Reading

• What is the difference between bit rate and baud rate?

  Learn how to understand the difference between bit rate and baud rate in this expert answer.Continue Reading

• SolarWinds NPM product overview

  SolarWinds NPM system supports a wide range of features, among them data flow collection, server and application monitoring, and quality of service for enterprise VoIP suites.Continue Reading

• SevOne monitoring suite product overview

  SevOne monitoring products, such as the Performance Application Solution, scale to the environment size. The PAS appliance can monitor up to 200,000 network devices.Continue Reading

• How to choose the right next-gen network migration option

  Network operators planning next-generation network migrations need to choose from layered, geographic and service-oriented approaches, or a combo platter that meets their needs.Continue Reading

• High-speed wireless access: Fact or fiction?

  High-speed wireless access is all the rage, but one user cautions against buying into the 802.11ac hype. Yes, it's progress, but not as much as you might think.Continue Reading

• CA UIM network performance monitor: product overview

  CA Technologies' network performance monitoring products include CA UIM, which supports a variety of features, including network performance and availability management.Continue Reading